“I’m extremely optimistic,” he told CBSSports.com of signing a long-term contract extension with New York. “I’ve really enjoyed it here.”

The 29-year-old third baseman has a $16 million team option for 2013 with a $1 million buyout. The Mets will get one exclusive shot this offseason at re-signing Wright, who won’t negotiate during this season or next.

Despite another lost season, Wright told CBSSports.com that the Mets (64-72) have taken “small steps in the right direction and have something to build on.”

“There’s not a single complaint that I have,” he said. “(The Mets) drafted me as a kid. They developed me. They’ve given me an opportunity to make a living playing a game. There’s a tremendous amount of mutual respect. They’ve gone above and beyond.”

Perhaps the most telling comment from the once-overlooked kid from Norfolk, Va., who described himself as a “loyal person,” came in reference to his boyhood hero.

“My favorite player was Cal Ripken,” said Wright. “The biggest reason for that was, I like that he stayed.”

How confident are you that Wright will remain in Queens? Be heard in the comments below!